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The second annual 1K Man March took place in North Lawndale on Saturday, May 7, 2022. While the march was in support of youth, and youth employment; this year it was themed for mothers, as it fell one day before Mother’s Day.
It was a day full of festivities. The march began roughly at noon, traveling a two-mile route through one of Chicago’s most dangerous communities, preaching for peace. When the marchers arrived back at home base, they were greeted by performances from some of Chicago’s most talented.
Vocalists, a saxophonist, and even a Michael Jackson impersonator lit up the outdoor stage. It reminded all those in attendance that community is necessary to improve North Lawndale. There was an essay contest in which students presented essays they wrote highlighting how much their mother meant to them. It was a heartwarming presentation of the impact of a mother’s love.
The performances in order: Blaq Ice, Sax Preacher, Cheri Soul, Michael Jackson, and last but not least Reginald Hughes. Blaq Ice delivered a powerful spoken word about the state of the North Lawndale community, how it can be helped, and who is capitalizing off of its rundown state. The Sax Preacher then filled the afternoon with recognizable songs played on the saxophone of course. After him, Cheri Soul graced the stage with smooth soulful singing. Reginald Hughes closed the show with two classics, Luther Vandross’ “Never Too Much’ and Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition.”
The Michael Jackson impersonator undoubtedly got the most people out of their chairs, performing the melody of some of The King of Pop’s most famous songs. It started off slow, he danced and lip-synced on the small stage, which turned a few heads. Then, he got off the stage and started engaging with the audience, coming up and dancing with them. People began moving to the dance floor.
When he had a crowd around him on the floor, he pulled a select few onstage to dance. He handed one of them his jacket and ran off.
Two songs later, after everyone was wondering where he went, he appeared again along with the start of “Man in The Mirror.” He then emerged atop an SUV, wearing all white dancing on the roof. He finished his set by walking down the street, still performing. It was a real party.
The 1K Man March has served the same purpose over the last two years. To remind all those in North Lawndale that community and unity will beat the problem of violence. By encouraging and uplifting people, progress is made. Many in the community are looking forward to the third annual 1K Man March, and it is not difficult to see why.
Written by Joseph Nelson
Edited by Sheena Robertson
Images Courtesy of TNS
